Chapter 28: The Dark World

Hadrian beholds Vorgossos under a dim brown dwarf: a nearly lightless planet pricked by ghostly city lights. Without warning, an unseen force undocks their vessel from the Enigma of Hours and guides it in silent procession toward a vast, threadlike tower rising from the planet to a station high above.

Docking clamps seize the hull, and Pallino and Crim lead the cautious disembarkation. The reception hall is deserted—no officials, merchants, or crowds—only stars through the dome and the oppressive glare of the dead sun. The architecture is ancient and scarred, its emptiness amplifying unease.

Valka asserts they are being watched, a feeling Hadrian shares. In a domed chamber lined with black marble and five-pointed stars, banks of lift carriages wait beneath towering, faceless statues. Talk of retreat dies as the entry door irises shut, isolating them and cutting off communications with Captain Corvo.

Accepting they have no choice, the group activates shields and prepares weapons. The ominous figures—almost Cielcin-like in aspect—stir memories of prophecy in Hadrian, deepening the sense that fate draws them onward. He steels himself, draws Olorin’s sword, and declares he is not afraid, and they press forward into the unknown.